Escape to the Stunning Thai Countryside

A short drive south of Bangkok lies the seaside town of Hua Hin, a little getaway which has long been a favourite of locals. As you leave the city behind, you start to see a different side of Thailand — one of lush green vegetation, vibrant temples, and wide, open fields.

Hua Hin has been a retreat from Bangkok for almost a century now — it began when the Thai royal family built their summer residences there to escape the city’s sweltering temperatures. Now, the town offers a cool seachange to visitors year-round, with plenty to explore and delicious, fresh seafood to sample.

The man who knows Hua Hin best is Khun Alex, the Chief Experiences Guru at Anantara Hua Hin Resort. He’s been working there for 17 years, and is always happy to make recommendations to guests looking for something new or exciting to try. Brimming with enthusiasm and an infectious smile, he explains, “I love engaging with guests from all over the world, to bring them closer to my country and my culture.”

No matter your desire, Alex can arrange an itinerary of Hua Hin to impress everyone. For the adventurous, take a trip to the nearby Phraya Nakhon Cave. A half-hour mountain trek reveals a stunning forest living inside a cave, along with a hidden temple. Stepping into the space with a narrow beam of sunlight emanating from the ceiling is magical, like something from a fantasy film. There are also plenty of action sports, whether you prefer to jump behind the wheel of an ATV and go off-road, or fly down a zipline from great heights.

For those interested in a less strenuous activity, the Pranburi National Park offers immense beauty and serenity, allowing you to stroll along boardwalks below the towering mangroves. Hua Hin is also well known for its golf courses, giving those keen on the sport the chance to play on internationally renowned courses. Those century-old royal residences are also still there, now Maruekhathaiyawan Palace, you can visit this unique open-air property, which is still used today by Thai royalty.

Of course, for the ultimate form of leisure, Anantara Hua Hin Resort is situated on the beachfront, allowing you the opportunity to lounge around all day and take relaxation to the next level by indulging in a luxuriant massage at the Anantara Spa.

When staying at Anantara Hua Hin Resort, you choose the pace of your stay. Whether you want an adventurous and adrenaline-filled rush or a break to get away from the city to unwind, it’s the perfect place to escape and explore.